Should you cook spinach before putting it on a pizza?

It depends on the texture and moisture level you’re aiming for. If you want a fresher, slightly crisp bite, use raw spinach. Just be sure to pat it dry to avoid sogginess. If you prefer a smoother blend with less moisture, sauté the spinach first. Cooking it beforehand also helps concentrate its flavor, which pairs beautifully with the garlicky richness of Shrimp Scampi and Spinach Pizza .

Should shrimp be cooked before putting on pizza?

Yes, for best results. Shrimp should be lightly sautéed in garlic butter or olive oil before being added to the pizza. This partial cooking enhances flavor and ensures even doneness in the oven. Raw shrimp may release too much moisture or overcook unevenly, compromising the texture of your Shrimp Scampi and Spinach Pizza .

What is best to serve with shrimp scampi?

Shrimp scampi pairs beautifully with light, zesty sides like arugula salad, lemon-garlic asparagus, or roasted vegetables. If you're serving it as a pizza topping, try wine pairings like Sauvignon Blanc or Prosecco and sides such as Caprese skewers or a fresh cucumber salad. These additions balance the richness of the scampi with bright, clean flavors.

Is spinach on pizza healthy?

Yes, spinach is a great way to add nutrients to your pizza. It’s high in iron, vitamins A and C, and fiber , all while being low in calories. Adding spinach to pizza—especially in dishes like Shrimp Scampi and Spinach Pizza —boosts the meal’s nutritional value while enhancing its earthy, fresh flavor.

Will spinach cook in the oven?

Absolutely. Spinach wilts quickly in the oven, especially at high pizza-baking temperatures (475°F–500°F). Whether placed raw or sautéed, it will soften and blend well with cheese and toppings. Just be sure it’s not too wet, as extra moisture can affect your crust's texture.

What pizza toppings should be cooked first?

Ingredients with high moisture content or longer cook times—like shrimp, mushrooms, or sausage—should be partially or fully cooked before adding to your pizza. This prevents soggy crusts and ensures everything cooks evenly. For Shrimp Scampi and Spinach Pizza , always pre-cook the shrimp and optionally sauté the spinach for best results.

Shrimp Scampi and Spinach Pizza – 5 Best Secrets for Success

Name: Shrimp Scampi and Spinach Pizza
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb medium raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 cups fresh baby spinach; 1 pizza dough (homemade or store-bought); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; ¼ cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup shredded fontina cheese (optional); ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional topping); Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice); Salt and pepper to taste; Cornmeal or flour (for dusting the pizza peel)

Shrimp Scampi and Spinach Pizza

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This Shrimp Scampi and Spinach Pizza blends buttery garlic shrimp with fresh spinach and melty cheese, creating a gourmet homemade meal that’s simple yet packed with flavor.

Author: Amelia
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Yield: 1 large pizza (8 slices)
Category: Dinner, Main Course, Pizza Recipes
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

1 lb medium raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 cups fresh baby spinach
1 pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup shredded fontina cheese (optional)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional topping)
Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Salt and pepper to taste
Cornmeal or flour (for dusting the pizza peel)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C) and place a pizza stone or baking sheet inside.
In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and olive oil. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
Add shrimp, white wine, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until shrimp turn pink. Remove from heat.
Roll out pizza dough on a floured surface. Transfer to a cornmeal-dusted peel or parchment paper.
Brush the dough with olive oil or white sauce if desired.
Sprinkle mozzarella and fontina cheeses evenly over the dough.
Layer with fresh or sautéed spinach.
Top with the cooked shrimp, spacing them evenly.
Add optional red pepper flakes and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Bake pizza for 8–12 minutes until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
Let cool slightly, then slice and serve immediately.

Notes

For a crispier base, preheat the pizza stone for at least 20 minutes.
Substitute spinach with arugula for a peppery twist.
Leftover shrimp scampi pizza can be reheated in a skillet or air fryer for best results.
Use a perforated pizza pan if you prefer a lighter, less crispy crust.

Find it online: https://recipesbyamelia.com/shrimp-scampi-and-spinach-pizza/